This information explains when to start taking certain medications before each of your intrathecal radioimmunotherapy (RIT) antibody injections. Your nurse practitioner (NP) will fill in the information with you. Call them if you have questions.
Potassium Iodide (SSKI®) and Liothyronine (Cytomel®)
Potassium iodide and liothyronine are medications to help protect your thyroid during your treatment. If you’re getting an antibody injection radiolabeled with iodine, you’ll need to take potassium iodide and liothyronine before and after each injection. Your healthcare provider will give you a prescription.
Start taking potassium iodide and liothyronine 7 days before each antibody injection. Keep taking them every day until 2 weeks after each antibody injection. Your oncologist or NP will tell you what dose (amount) to take and when to start and stop taking them.
Your oncologist or NP will give you a medication diary. Use it to record the potassium iodide and liothyronine you take. Write your initials in each box when you take your medication. Be sure to write any missed doses in your diary. Bring your diary to all your appointments.
Take the potassium iodide (SSKI) and liothyronine (Cytomel) until the end date your oncologist or NP gave you. Read your medication diary for more information.
Dexamethasone (Decadron®) and an Antacid
Dexamethasone is a steroid medication that helps control inflammation (swelling).
Start taking dexamethasone the night before each antibody injection. You’ll take a total of 6 doses of dexamethasone for each injection:
- 1 dose the night before each injection.
- 2 doses in clinic on the day of each injection. A nurse will give you these doses.
- 2 doses the day after each injection.
- 1 dose the second day after each injection.
Your oncologist or NP will tell you exactly what dose to take and when to start and stop taking it.
Antacid Schedule
Sometimes, dexamethasone can upset your stomach. Taking an antacid on the days you take the dexamethasone can help prevent this. For most people, your healthcare provider will give you a prescription for a liquid antacid. On the day of your antibody injections, a nurse will give you the antacid in clinic.
Your oncologist or NP will tell you exactly what dose to take and when to start and stop taking it.
For more information about your intrathecal RIT, read the resource About Your Intrathecal Radioimmunotherapy (RIT) for Pediatric Patients.
